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Cosmetic surgery is not just performed to change bodily features to achieve a more desirable appearance but is also undertaken by people with disfigurements through disease, accident or birth defect.

Procedures are available on the NHS where there are overriding physical or psychological reasons but most procedures are paid for privately and, in recent years, procedures have become much more affordable. Cosmetic Surgery Groups are in abundance luring clients by promoting special offers and finance deals in glossy magazines. The impression given is that procedures are straightforward and safe; however the reality is all cosmetic operations involve complicated and precise invasive surgery and every patient is an individual. Results cannot be guaranteed.

The experience and expertise of doctors performing cosmetic surgery is often assumed, but the industry sadly lacks regulation. It is essential that the qualifications and expertise of the cosmetic surgeon is the first priority for potential patients rather than cost. A surgeon who is a member of an association such as BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) and BAPRAS (British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons) should ensure that they have the relevant training and experience.

When surgery or treatment does go wrong, the consequences can be devastating. Sacrifices have been made to pay for a procedure in the expectation it would restore confidence and lead to a happier, more fulfilling life, yet it can lead to pain, further disfigurement, health issues, psychological trauma and even marital problems.

In our experience the following are examples of what can go wrong:

consent – if the risks have not been explained to the patient and things do go wrong but without any fault on the surgeon’s part, damages may still be payable for the failure to advise of that risk

adverse reactions to anaesthetic, drugs or medical products

infections

unnecessary scarring or disfigurement

damage to nerves leading to paralysis

implants that rupture, deflate, are the wrong size or positioned incorrectly